When in Rome

Debbie Lewis finds a peaceful retreat in the heart of Rome.

Location
With many of Rome’s most popular sights, including the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, just a few minutes walk away, it would be hard to find a better-situated, but affordable hotel in Italy’s capital. In a city where walking is definitely the best way to get around, you really are right in the heart of things, although as we were to discover, despite its central location, Hotel de Borgognoni proved to be quiet and peaceful by night and lived up to its claim of being ‘a peaceful oasis in the heart of Rome’.

First impressions
Entering the hotel from the noisy bustling streets really does feel like walking into a peaceful haven. Although it’s based in one of the most exclusive parts of the city, there is nothing overly grand or pretentious about the place, but that doesn’t mean you’re not made to feel special as soon as you arrive. I was particularly impressed that the concierge knew all of our names. The building dates back to the 19th century and inside the generously sized reception area the walls are lined with paintings depicting scenes from the classical period. The plush, red velvet sofas and chairs and oversized plants all give the place an opulent but relaxed feel.

Wining and dining
The hotel serves a great breakfast of scrambled eggs and sausages, as well as cereal, fresh fruit and all sorts of cakes and pastries as well as great coffee, all served in a bright and breezy cafeteria.
You can also have lunch here or enjoy room service which is available until midnight and includes traditional favourites like salads and pasta dishes. We were content to order a couple of glasses of perfectly chilled Prosecco, as an aperitif, before going out for dinner. The service was prompt and polite.

Sleeping
We were travelling with my teenage daughter so had two interconnecting rooms. Hers had a small balcony area, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine on a balmy evening. The velvet theme is carried on in the bedrooms, with red velvet cushions and throws and the beds are big and comfortable with cool, crisp white bed-linen. We also appreciated the nightly turn down and the sachet of face cream left on our pillows. After hours spent walking the cobbled streets, having a soak in the generously proportioned bath tub was a real treat.

Service
The service at the hotel really couldn’t be faulted. The staff seemed to take a personal interest and couldn’t have been more helpful, whether it was lending us an umbrella, offering great recommendations on where to eat, or being generally welcoming every time we returned to the hotel. If felt very personal for such a busy and centrally located hotel.

Leisure Time
Most of Rome’s attractions are situated within the historic centre, so are in easy reach of the hotel. From classical wonders such as the Pantheon, to vibrant Piazza Navona and Fiore di Campo, and glamorous shopping streets like Via Condotti, and Via Del Corso, many of the city’s highlights are right on your door step.

Highs
With just 51 rooms, it has an intimate feel. The fantastic central location and the unfailing friendliness of the staff – from the hotel manager to the chamber maids also score very highly.

Lows
Although there’s a small bar, we didn’t really feel tempted to linger there for too long. But it really didn’t seem to matter as there are so many places to choose from immediately outside the front door

Verdict
A comfortable, well-priced, boutique hotel, right in the heart of Rome, which would suit a wide range of customers from couples to family groups.

Price
From £170 for a standard double room